https://www.history.com/topics/us-government/impeachment-in-us-history > How the Impeachment Process Works > Generally, the first step in the impeachment process in the House of Representatives is to hold a formal inquiry into whether or not there are grounds for impeachment. This can be carried out by a House committee or an independent counsel. The House of Representatives can also just hold a floor vote on articles of impeachment without any committee or panel vetting them. > It’s important to note that impeachment doesn’t refer to the removal of an elected official from office, but rather it represents the first of a two-step process in potentially removing that official. > Based on the findings of a House committee or independent panel, the House judiciary committee can then draft and approve articles of impeachment. These articles may then go to the House floor for a vote. If the articles are passed by a simple majority, the matter moves to the Senate. > The Senate then acts as courtroom, jury and judge, except in presidential impeachment trials, during which the chief justice of the U.S. Supreme Court acts as judge. > A two-thirds majority of the Senate is required to convict, and the penalty is usually removal from office, and sometimes disqualification from holding any future offices.